Only about 12,400 cheetahs remain in the wild, thanks to habitat loss, poaching, and a dwindling gene pool. The species' lack of genetic diversity may be contributing to a high mortality rate for cubs, which is why it’s great news that a cheetah named Meg recently gave birth to four healthy little ones at South Africa’s Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre. Double bonus: The quadruplets carry a recessive gene that could bring more "king cheetahs" into the world. What’s that again, big cat royalty? King cheetahs have a rare and stiking fur pattern consisting of three solid stripes down the cat’s back. So say hello to the little princes and/or princesses (we can't tell yet).
Other things to know this morning:
Now that Toledo residents can once again drink their water (cue shot of the mayor taking a stoic first sip), you may be wondering what other regions in the United States are at risk for toxic algal blooms and the agricultural pollution that causes them.
When rain finally did fall in a state experiencing its most severe drought in recorded history, flash floods and mudslides that stranded 500 children and adults at a California church camp came with it.
Ten of the world’s top public relations firms told The Guardian that they would not consider representing climate-denying clients—which is pretty awesome news (until you realize the newspaper had heard from the world's top 25 P.R. firms).
Tips: @OnEarthMag (tag it #greenreads)
Like this article? Donate to NRDC to support OnEarth's groundbreaking nonprofit journalism.